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Michelle Obama to visit Philadelphia for College Signing Day

The former first lady will join thousands of Philadelphia students at the Liacouras Center in May.

Michelle Obama address the crowd during a conversation with poet Elizabeth Alexander the Obama Foundation Summit in Chicago. She will speak at an event for high-school students in Philadelphia in May.
Michelle Obama address the crowd during a conversation with poet Elizabeth Alexander the Obama Foundation Summit in Chicago. She will speak at an event for high-school students in Philadelphia in May.Read moreCharles Rex Arbogast / AP, file

Former first lady Michelle Obama will join thousands of students buckling down on their futures next month in Philadelphia.

Obama announced Thursday that she would visit for College Signing Day on May 2, a national event where students celebrate their post-high-school plans, whether they involve a college or university, professional training program, or the military. The event will be held at Temple University's Liacouras Center and is similar to the signing days held for student athletes.

"I'm so in awe of college-bound students all over the country — you inspire Barack Obama and me every day," Obama tweeted. "We know how hard you've worked to make your college dreams a reality. That's why #CollegeSigningDay is one of my favorite traditions. I can't wait to celebrate in Philly!"

In addition to the 8,000 students from public, private, charter and parochial schools expected to attend, celebrities including Bradley Cooper, Kelly Rowland, Ahmir "Questlove" Thompson, Robert De Niro, Nick Cannon, and Philadelphia Eagles players will join in the festivities, according to a news release.

College Signing Day, now in its fifth year, is held by Obama's "Reach Higher" initiative, which strives to help students across the country continue their education.

Obama has visited New York City, Detroit, and San Antonio during past College Signing Day events.

Tickets for the event cost $55 and can be purchased online.